Judith "Judy" Avner

Judith “Judy” I. Avner, 74, of Delmar, New York, passed away suddenly on September 22, 2026. While Judy left an indelible mark as a brilliant attorney, civil and women’s rights advocate, and trailblazing public servant, her family was the absolute center and most important part of her world.

In September 1986, Judy married the love of her life, Stephen Eckert. Together, they built a beautiful family filled with deep devotion, laughter, fun, and shared adventures. They were blessed with two daughters, Sara (David Garcia) and Amanda (Grant Myers), who were the pride and joy of Judy’s life. In 2024, Sara and Dave’s daughter Sydney was born, bringing boundless nachas (pride and joy) to the whole family. 

Judy possessed a truly rare gift: a warmth so genuine that she made all who were part of her inner circle feel as though they were each her best friend. She was a woman of extraordinary talent, profound kindness, and empathy for others. Judy was an unwavering supporter of democratic and social values and could often be found at protests to support these causes. 

Her personal passions brought immense energy and vibrancy to her days. She was a passionate, if forlorn, NY Mets fan, a collector of handmade dolls, menorahs and free giveaways. An enthusiastic traveler all her life, Judy spent her retirement years not merely seeing the world but truly experiencing it alongside her loved ones and friends. Her wanderlust took her across the country and world, including national parks, Africa, Japan, Israel, the Amazon and Galápagos Islands (where she faced her fear of snorkeling), and a bucket list trip to Amsterdam to see the tulips. And, of course, she went to Disney World.

Professionally, Judy distinguished herself in every way. Early in her career, she worked as a legal scholar and attorney for the National Organization for Women’s Legal Defense and Education Fund. This paved the way for her role as legislative assistant and trusted legal advisor to the pioneering Brooklyn Congresswoman Elizabeth Holtzman. In that role she helped build the legal architecture supporting groundbreaking efforts for women's rights and justice. Judy continued this work through her collaboration with other key figures, including the Honorable Ruth Bader Ginsburg. These efforts solidified Judy’s reputation as a top-tier policy expert and led to her cabinet-level appointment in the administration of Governor Mario Cuomo. 

Cuomo appointed Judy as the first Director of the New York State Division for Women because of her expertise in public policy and her devotion to gender equality and women rights. In this foundational role, she developed statewide public policy, advocating for pay equity, reproductive freedoms, and stronger protections for women.

Following her tenure in state government, Judy served for 19 years as the Executive Director of the Brain Injury Association of NYS. Her driving curiosity and dedication resulted in strengthened services for people with brain injuries, expanded statewide support networks, and increased public awareness initiatives. 

Judy was grounded in her Jewish heritage and community. She was a pillar of Congregation Ohav Shalom in Albany, NY, where she served as President of the Board of Trustees. She guided and anchored the congregation with steady leadership through the immense challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. She translated her ardent belief in the spirit of tikkun olam (healing of the world) into action, working to help resettle dozens of Afghan refugee families in the Capital Region. In her various teaching roles at Ohav, she touched the lives of countless students who continue to hold her in the highest regard. 

Judy was an active volunteer and supporter of the Jewish National Fund and other nonprofits such as Yad LaKashish, which works with the elderly and other vulnerable populations in Israel. She came out of retirement to lead Jewish Family Services of NENY through a period of change. Thanks to her leadership and devotion, the organization continues to thrive. And then, she went to Disney World again (and again).

Judy’s volunteering spirit extended into the communal and cultural life of the Capital Region. When her daughters were young, she became a Girl Scout leader finding  time to mentor and empower the next generation. True to form, she brought the troop to their silver awards which focused on careers for women. Judy spent more than 20 summers volunteering as an usher in Orchestra Left at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Continuing her nurturing nature, she and Steve opened their home and hearts to visiting students from Israel and Thailand, proudly hosting them and fostering deep and lasting connections.

When it came to leisure, Judy had clear favorites. While she was not a game person, she loved losing money playing mahjong with friends. She was an insatiable reader and you could often find her exploring her interests in multiple books at a time. She was also an expert shopper, possessing a legendary talent for tracking down the perfect bargain for something she truly wanted. This led to Judy taking a part-time job at J. Jill, where she continued to share her warmth, eye for style, and talent for finding deals with friends and strangers alike.

Judy is survived by her beloved husband, Stephen Eckert; her cherished daughters, Sara Eckert (David Garcia) and Amanda Eckert (Grant Myers); her adored granddaughter, Sydney; her brothers, Dr. Jeffrey (Rhonda) Avner and Kenneth (Wendy) Avner, and her Aunt Dorris as well as many other family members. She also leaves behind a network of friends who were her “chosen family.” She was predeceased by her parents, Sidney and Frances Avner.

Judy Avner’s life was an exceptional tapestry of public service, community leadership, and profound maternal and marital love. She leaves behind a legacy of caring, respect, advocacy, and service, as well as family and friends who will forever carry forth her extraordinary spirit. May her memory forever be a blessing.

In honor of Judy's lifelong commitments and values, her family requests that donations in her memory be directed to any of the following organizations: Congregation Ohav Shalom (Albany, NY), Jewish Family Services (Albany, NY), Donate Life America, or the charity of your choice.